Beginner’s Guide to Vaping: Essential Tips for First-Time Vapers

November 8, 2022
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Switching to vaping can feel overwhelming with the variety of devices, e-liquids, and techniques available. If you’re new to vaping, understanding the basics can help you transition smoothly and avoid common beginner mistakes.

This guide covers everything you need to know about vaping for the first time, from choosing the right device and e-liquid to perfecting your technique and maintaining your vape for the best experience.

We’ll also introduce Black Note, the leader in naturally extracted tobacco (NET) e-liquids, for those who want an authentic and premium vaping experience.

How to Vape for the First Time: Key Steps

1. Choose the Right Vaping Device

There are several types of vaping devices, each suited for different preferences and needs:

Cigarette-like Pod Systems (Best for Beginners) – Easy to use, closely mimics smoking.
Vape Pens – Small and portable, offers more customization.
Box Mods – Advanced devices with customizable power and airflow.
Disposable Vapes – Convenient for short-term use but not cost-effective long-term.

Recommended Devices:

For beginners, pod systems or vape pens are recommended, as they provide a familiar feel and ease of use.

2. Selecting the Right E-Liquid

E-liquids come in different nicotine strengths, flavors, and VG/PG ratios:

Nicotine Strength: Choose based on your previous smoking habits.
- Heavy smokers: 20-30mg nicotine salt
- Moderate smokers: 6-12mg freebase nicotine
- Light smokers or non-smokers: 0-6mg nicotine
VG/PG Ratio:
- Higher PG (50/50 or 60/40) – Stronger throat hit, best for ex-smokers.
- Higher VG (70/30 or 80/20) – Smoother hit, produces more vapor.
Flavor Selection: Tobacco, menthol, fruit, dessert, and other flavors.

VAPE GUIDE

New to Vaping or Black Note?

Whether you're transitioning from smoking to vaping or seeking an upgrade to natural tobacco e-liquids, Black Note has you covered. Our quick, 15-second quiz and comprehensive guide are tailored to help both smokers and current vapers discover their ideal natural vaping alternatives.

DISCOVER YOUR MATCH!

For those looking for an authentic tobacco experience, Black Note’s naturally extracted tobacco (NET) e-liquids provide a rich, natural flavor without artificial sweeteners or chemicals.

3. Learn the Correct Inhalation Technique

Many new vapers experience coughing or throat irritation due to incorrect inhalation. There are two main techniques:

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL): Best for ex-smokers. Inhale vapor into your mouth first, then into your lungs.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL): Produces bigger clouds, best for sub-ohm vaping. Inhale vapor directly into your lungs.

Beginners should start with MTL vaping, as it closely resembles cigarette smoking.

4. Maintain Your Vape Device

Keeping your device clean and well-maintained ensures better performance and longevity.

Clean your tank regularly to prevent flavor buildup.
Change coils when needed (usually every 1-2 weeks).
Store e-liquids properly in a cool, dark place to maintain flavor.

Neglecting maintenance can lead to burnt flavors, poor vapor production, and leakage issues.

Common Beginner Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Using the Wrong Nicotine Strength

Too high = Harsh throat hit, dizziness, nausea.
Too low = Unsatisfied cravings, increased vaping frequency.
Solution: Start with moderate strength and adjust based on experience.

2. Chain Vaping

Taking frequent puffs without pausing can burn the coil and cause dry hits.
Solution: Wait at least 10-15 seconds between puffs.

3. Inhaling Too Hard

Vaping requires a slow, steady draw—not a sharp inhale like smoking.
Solution: Take gentle puffs to avoid coughing or excessive throat hit.

4. Choosing the Wrong PG/VG Ratio

High PG may feel too harsh for some users.
High VG may not deliver enough throat hit.
Solution: Experiment with 50/50 or 60/40 blends before switching to higher VG.

5. Ignoring Hydration

Solution: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Vaping can cause dry mouth, as propylene glycol (PG) absorbs moisture.

Why Black Note is the Best Choice for Beginner Vapers

1. Naturally Extracted Tobacco (NET) E-Liquids

Unlike most e-liquids that use artificial tobacco flavors, Black Note uses real tobacco leaves through a cold maceration process to deliver the most authentic taste.

2. No Artificial Sweeteners or Harmful Additives

Black Note e-liquids are free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, diacetyl, and acetyl propionyl, ensuring a clean, pure vaping experience.

3. Smooth Transition for Smokers

Many smokers struggle to find a satisfying alternative. Black Note’s tobacco blends, such as:

American Blend – Classic cigarette-style taste.
Virginia Tobacco – Smooth and naturally sweet.
Latakia – Rich, smoky, and full-bodied.

These options provide a seamless transition from smoking to vaping without sacrificing flavor.

4. Quality & Purity Assurance

Every Black Note product undergoes extensive lab testing to ensure safety, purity, and quality.

5. Take the Black Note Vape Quiz

New vapers can take the Black Note Vape Quiz to find their ideal e-liquid and device based on their smoking history.

FAQ’s

Is vaping safer than smoking?

Public Health England states that vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking. While not entirely risk-free, vaping eliminates tar and carbon monoxide—two of the most harmful substances in cigarettes.

Will I cough the first time I vape?

Many new vapers experience coughing due to incorrect technique, high nicotine strength, or a PG-heavy e-liquid. Adjusting your inhalation style and choosing the right vape juice can help.

What’s the best vape for quitting smoking?

A pod system with high nicotine salt e-liquids (20-30mg) is ideal for transitioning smokers. These devices provide a familiar feel and satisfying nicotine delivery.

How long does it take to adjust to vaping?

Most users adapt within a few days to a week. If you experience discomfort, try adjusting nicotine levels, inhalation techniques, or e-liquid PG/VG ratios.

Can I use any e-liquid with my device?

Not all e-liquids work with every device. Pod systems and MTL vapes require higher PG e-liquids, while sub-ohm tanks need higher VG blends.

How often should I replace my coil?

Coils typically last 1-2 weeks, depending on usage. Signs of a burnt coil include harsh throat hits, muted flavor, and darkened e-liquid.

Should I steep my e-liquid before vaping?

Steeping allows flavors to develop over time. Some tobacco e-liquids, like Black Note’s naturally extracted blends, do not require steeping due to their extended extraction process.

Key Takeaways

Vaping can be a safer and more enjoyable alternative to smoking, but choosing the right device, e-liquid, and technique is essential for a smooth experience.

If you’re looking for the best tobacco e-liquid for beginners, Black Note’s NET blends offer a premium, all-natural vaping experience unmatched by artificial alternatives.

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